Ronald Reagan’s widow Nancy laid a wreath for her husband yesterday on the 100th anniversary of his birthday, in an emotional celebration of the former US President’s life.

Making a rare public appearance, the former First Lady was given a standing ovation by supporters including ex-chief of staff James Baker and other Reagan administration members and aides.

“It brings back so many memories to see all of your faces,” said the frail-looking 89-year-old, dressed in red on a sunny day at her husband’s Presidential Library in Simi Valley, north of Los Angeles.

“I know that Ronny would be thrilled, and is thrilled to have all of you share in his 100th birthday,” she added, speaking clearly after being helped by a Marine through the ceremony.

“It doesn’t seem possible, but that’s what it is,” she added.

A 21-gun salute was fired and the Star Spangled Banner sung as thousands gathered for the centenary of the former California governor’s birth on February 6, 1911.

Yesterday’s events also included a concert by the Beach Boys and others, an F-18 fly-past from the USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier, and the ribbon-cutting for a renovated museum in her husband’s name.

The former First Lady rarely speaks now, although today TV channel KUED will air The Role of a Lifetime, a programme including an “intimate” interview with her by veteran broadcaster Judy Woodruff.

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